2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Overview

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a three-row luxury SUV that carries a starting MSRP of $67,050. Formerly known as the GL-Class, Mercedes has renamed this SUV because they say it’s now the “S-Class among the SUVs.” Key competitors for the 2017 GLS include the Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX80, and Range Rover.

What’s New for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS?

Besides coming with a name change, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS features a redesigned front fascia that’s highlighted by a wider grille and restyled headlights. In contrast, the back end of the vehicle gets new LED taillights and a fresh bumper design. As for the interior, Mercedes offers its new COMAND system with 8-inch touchscreen that can be used to access navigation and entertainment technology, among other functions. Consumers will have the choice between four distinct trim levels: GLS350d, GLS450, GLS550, and AMG GLS63.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Photos:

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Exterior

Other than minor changes made to the front and rear fascias, the exterior of the new GLS is very similar to its predecessor. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS comes standard with 19-inch 5-spoke wheels, but consumers with a passion for larger wheels can upgrade to 22-inchers. On the very front of the vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz star emblem is slightly bigger than it was last year on the GL-Class. New LED headlamps are also an available option. Exterior colors for the 2017 GLS include Polar White, Lunar Blue Metallic, and Diamond Silver Metallic.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Performance

If there are two things that Mercedes-Benz vehicles are famous for, then it would have to be extravagant interior cabins, as well as tremendous power underneath their hoods. The 2017 GLS certainly won’t disappoint Mercedes enthusiasts in the power department, as this new model is available with four powerful engine options. The standard engine is a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel good for 255 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, but if you go up one trim level to the GLS450 model, then you’ll find a 3.0-liter V6 biturbo motor, which packs 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. For those people who desire a good old V8, take a look at the GLS550 and its 4.7-liter biturbo that’s rated at 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the top-level AMG GLS63 comes equipped with a handcrafted 5.5-liter AMG biturbo V8 that pumps out 577 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLS63 makes use of a seven-speed 7G-Tronic transmission, while the other three trims all come with a nine-speed automatic.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Efficiency

Fuel economy data for GLS models equipped with the diesel or either V8 engine has yet to be released, but Mercedes says the 2017 GLS450 will yield 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Furthermore, this Mercedes SUV uses high-pressure direct injection technology, as well as an ECO Start/Stop system in order to cut emissions and save gasoline.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Interior

The interior of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS provides seating for up to seven people and also comes standard with a rearview camera and remote start technology. Drivers will sit behind a new three-spoke steering wheel and the Dynamic Select system allows the driver to choose from three unique driving modes: Comfort, Sport, and Slippery. In addition, the GLS comes standard with a premium lighting system, Eucalyptus wood trim, and privacy glass. In terms of cargo space, the GLS boasts 49.8 cubic feet of storage space with the third row folded down.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Safety

Standard safety features for the AWD Mercedes-Benz GLS includes LED daytime running lamps and tailamps, a rearview camera, and an 11-way airbag protection system. The new GLS also comes with new advanced safety features like Attention Assist, which can alert drivers if it senses they are exhibiting drowsy driving behaviors. Another advanced technology found on the new GLS is Active Brake Assist. This safety feature uses radar sensors to measure the speed at which the vehicle is closing on slower cars ahead. If the system determines a collision is likely, it can aid the driver in providing the correct level of braking in order to prevent or mitigate a collision.